A case of osteoporosis with bilateral defects in the mandibular processes.

We carried out a detailed total body examination of a 62-year-old woman with osteoporosis who had bilateral defects in the mandibular processes. It was inferred that the defects in both articular heads were caused by resorption of small bone fragments following fracture. The quantity of bone salt was determined by microdensitometry, and a diagnosis of osteoporosis was then established. An improved bite was obtained by treatment consisting of tooth extraction and the preparation of partial dentures.